Top 10 Food Trends in Specialty Food for 2016

Press enter to search

Top 10 Food Trends in Specialty Food for 2016

By CGT Staff - 12/08/2015

The $109 billion specialty food industry is driven by innovation and small-batch production. From Latin American cuisine to flower flavorings, the following are ten trends predicted for 2016 by the editors of Specialty Food News, the daily newsletter from the Specialty Food Association.

Fifty percent of consumers purchase specialty food and those numbers are expected to rise in 2016, according to Association research.

"Health and convenience come across loud and clear in 2016's trend forecast," says Denise Purcell, head of content for the Specialty Food Association. "Consumers gravitate toward simpler foods and beverages, often sustainable and local, and they respond to products and new store formats that make their lives easier. But, while they may want their food simpler, they don't want it boring. There's always room for indulgence and new taste adventures."

Vegetables Take RootVegetables are getting new respect, and will crop up more in teas, yogurts, and ice-cream. Seaweed is set to soar.

Fresh FloralsFlower power will be evident in chocolate, cheese, snack foods, carbonated water, and an expanding variety of teas.